The logical, irrefutable conclusion is that banning recreational boating
all together will save 750 lives a year. Thus under the prevailing "if even
one life is saved, we must do it" theory, recreational boating must go!

After all there is no public benefit in enjoying oneself. That must be the
opinion of those pushing these rules. I'm sure if you ask anyone who
doesn't wear a PFD on board (according to the article, that's almost
everyone) they have concluded that they have a more enjoyable time not
wearing it. I don't wear mine, but I keep it close at hand. That's the
choice I've made.

I do other things to mitigate the risk which I would be willing to bet are
much more important statistically in saving lives than wearing a PFD at all
times. I don't drink, I maintain control of the vessel, keep a constant
lookout, educate my passesengers, follow the rules of the road, give every
one a wide berth, slow down in unfamilar waters and do don my PFD in rough
conditions. If I do screw up, I'll take responsibility. I have millions of
dollars of insurance both for others (liability) and myself and family
(health, disability and if all else fails, life insurance).

According to the National Safety Council, in 2001, 734 people died from a
"Fall involving bed, chair, other furniture." see
http://www.nsc.org/lrs/statinfo/odds.htm
If every bed, chair and other furniture had a seat belt, no doubt most of
these deaths could be avoided. Call it absurb, but there is absolutely no
logical distinction between this and the boat situation. And both would be
just as a ridiculous intrusion on my freedom. Stay out of my living room
and off my boat!!